Town's football clubs discuss proposed merger

The directors of two rival football clubs in a town are in merger discussions, it has been announced.

Real Bedford are currently in the eighth tier of English football while Bedford Town are in the seventh.

Real Bedford's co-owner Peter McCormack posted on X that a proposal to merge the two clubs had been submitted.

The proposed agreement would see McCormack would assume the role of chairman of the newly merged club while Jon Taylor and Ben Banks, of Bedford Town, would be non-executive directors

McCormack, a Bitcoin podcaster, bought Real Bedford, then a 10th-tier club called Bedford FC, in January 2022 as part of his ambition to give the town a Premier League team.

A joint statement from the two sides said: "By combining the commercial success and global reach of Real Bedford with Bedford Town's rich history, loyal fanbase, and infrastructure, this merger creates a powerful club able to compete at the highest levels in men's and women's football.

"At this stage, no final decisions have been made, and we are committed to ensuring that these decisions are shaped in consultation with both sets of fans."

Bedford Town play in the Southern League Premier Division Central and are based at the Eyrie in Cardington.

Real Bedford are currently top of the division below, Southern League Division One Central, and play at nearby McMullen Park.

In April 2024 Gemini founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss invested $4.5m in Bitcoin (about £3.6m) in McCormack's side and became co-owners.

On behalf of Real Bedford FC, McCormack said: "As a proud Bedfordian, nothing would make me happier than seeing our town represented at the highest levels in men's and women's football.

"We've made amazing progress with Real Bedford, but this merger unlocks the potential to achieve something truly special in the town."

Bedford Town FC director Taylor said: "This proposed merger represents a unique opportunity to build on that legacy and take football in Bedford to the next level.

"I understand that this news may raise questions or concerns for our loyal supporters.

"However, I truly believe that by combining the heritage and passion of Bedford Town with the innovation and commercial success of Real Bedford, we can create something special."

Details of a fan forum at Bedford Town will be announced at a later date.

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